[Lady KM]

I did not have PCOS until I had one Deproprovera shot. I was fine. I started my period at 13, and it was every 28 days like clock-work.

Then later, the doctor offered me the shot in lieu of my BC pills. What girl wouldn't turn down not having a period and not being pregnant? This girl did... Now over 10 years later I am battling the unintentional absence of periods.... it's sad but true.

Back to the question. After having my Depo shot, I gained like 40 lbs. in 6 months. I decided to discontinue the Depo and got back on the pill. So for me the weight came before the PCOS. I was not diagnosed with PCOS until after the Depo and weight gain.

[Ufi]

At what age did you get the shot? I was reasonably thin through most of college and didn't really notice period changes until about my mid 20s.

[HeatherMcG]

LadyKM- Your story is almost identical to mine. Was forced (almost) Depo by my OBGYN. Immediately after 2 weeks developed a nasty rash on my face. At that time, no one connected the two. Took the shot 2 more times before refusing to get another. Gained 35 lbs between the first and second shot. 40 between the 2nd and 3rd. 5 years later I am still battling my weight, fertility, and this weird rash that no one seems to be able to explain. THANK YOU for sharing your story about Depo and PCOS. My new doctors agree that it was the cause but don't have hard evidence in order to report it. I am being told, "Its just one of those things. We know it caused it. But, we can't really do anything about it."

[Lady KM]

I was 19 years old.

[Lady KM]

You're welcome HeatherMcG. Where is this rash of yours? What does it look like?

[HeatherMcG]

I was 18. My rash started as like a red raccoon mask around my eyes. Then it got flaky and horribly gross. As time went on it has spread, there isn't a part of body NOT affected it in one way or another. Either it is bright red and flaky or scar marks on my skin. I have tried steroids (makes it worse), light treatments, ointments, moisturizers, etc. Nothing. It comes and goes though it never is completely gone.

It has totally ruined the last 5 years of my life. I can't even go out in public without as much skin covered as possible without people staring.

[Lady KM]

I'm sorry to hear about the battle with your rash. Chin up, we can't focus on resolving the symptoms with our chins down. Stay positive. I'm talking to myself here too!